Nigeria’s telecommunications sector sustained its strong growth trajectory in March 2026, with active mobile subscriptions reaching 185.7 million, driven by rising digital adoption and sustained network investment.
Data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) showed an increase of 1.1 million active mobile lines during the month, extending a steady upward trend since August 2025 and underscoring the resilience of Africa’s largest telecom market.
Internet usage also gained ground. Active GSM internet subscriptions rose 0.4% month-on-month to 153.2 million, while total internet subscriptions across all providers climbed to 153.8 million, up from 153.1 million in February. The figures reflect deepening reliance on digital services, online commerce, mobile banking, streaming platforms and other internet-based applications.
All GSM operators recorded net subscriber additions, though growth rates varied significantly. Airtel Nigeria added approximately 600,000 new customers, expanding its base to 63.6 million and lifting its market share by 12 basis points to 34.3%, strengthening its position as the second-largest operator.
Market leader MTN Nigeria attracted nearly 448,000 additional subscribers, raising its base to 95.8 million and retaining a dominant 51.6% market share. Together, MTN and Airtel now account for about 85.9% of total mobile subscriptions, highlighting growing industry concentration. Their extensive network infrastructure, wide geographical coverage and consistent capital expenditure on upgrades have enabled deeper penetration in urban centres and expanded connectivity to underserved rural communities.
Smaller operators recorded more modest growth. Globacom added only 28,000 subscribers, bringing its total to 22.6 million, while T2 gained nearly 40,000, reaching approximately 3.5 million users. In the fixed-wired segment, active subscriptions rose about 10% month-on-month to over 137,000 lines, signalling growing interest in alternative broadband solutions.
The expansion comes as Nigeria’s digital economy becomes increasingly vital to growth. Rising adoption of fintech services, remote work, e-learning, cloud-based business solutions and digital entertainment is driving demand for faster, more reliable connectivity.
Analysts believe the sector is well-positioned for further growth, supported by favourable demographics, rising smartphone penetration and ongoing digital transformation. Stronger revenue generation has enabled operators to sustain network investment despite economic headwinds.
Looking ahead, stakeholders expect mobile subscriptions to continue growing at a measured pace as operators intensify efforts to improve network quality and expand coverage. Resilient demand for mobile and data services, driven by increasing digital adoption among consumers, businesses and government institutions, underpins the outlook.
As data consumption rises and internet access becomes an essential utility for millions of Nigerians, the telecommunications sector is expected to remain one of the strongest drivers of the country’s digital economy. With competition intensifying, operators will likely focus on network quality, service innovation and customer experience, even as MTN and Airtel consolidate their dominance.
